Fantastical Illustrations of Dreamy Worlds by Diana Sudyka

Chicago-based illustrator Diana Sudyka paints folk-inspired works that feature her subjects in the great outdoors. Her elegant images are partially silhouetted, and she uses their solid coloring as a stage for the beautifully-drawn patterning and details that adorn their bodies. Sudyka wraps them in branches and leaves, dots them with stars, and introduces them to the ghostly animals who are scampering by. It allows her to craft a rich story about the dark figures and their colorful additions.

Sudyka also adds special, hand-lettered phrases to her paintings, and these short and poetic statements create another layer of intrigue to the artist's work. "They let themselves be swept away with it all," is just one of the romantic sentiments that you'll find in her illustrations. The dreamy, fantastic nature of Sudyka's small worlds encourages us to get out and explore our own.

As technology becomes increasingly sophisticated, it’s found a place in nearly everyone’s life. If you’re looking for the perfect gift this holiday, digital devices and great gadgets are the place to start. From the world traveler to the health conscious to the kid at heart, we’ve found products that utilize modern technology in exciting ways.

Earlier this year, we marveled at Aelia Petro‘s mystical dragon jewelry that wraps around your neck as if you were Daenerys Targaryen. Since delighting us with those fantastical accessories, Petro has continued to craft the creatures. Now, they’re ready for the holidays as dragon ornaments that cling to baubles and bulbs. Not only are they ready to celebrate with you, but they’re on a mission, too.